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Quinn Signs Laws Aimed at Fighting Gang Crime

One requires school officials, such as principals, to report illegal weapons and gang activity to police. It also requires authorities to let principals know when a student is held for gang activity. The law takes effect next year.

Another bill establishes a Crime Witness Protection Program for people who help prosecute gang crimes. The law takes effect immediately and allows counties to be reimbursed for victims' and witnesses' short term living costs, among other things.

Quinn signed the laws Monday. He also used the event to drum up support for his proposed changes to a concealed carry law. Lawmakers will be in Springfield Tuesday.

The bills are HB2768 and HB1139. More information is available online: www.ilga.gov